When partners are experiencing trauma-induced emotional withdrawal, it can be challenging to maintain relational empathy and sexual responsiveness in their relationship. This is especially true for military couples who have experienced war, deployment, combat stress, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
There are some strategies that can help them navigate these difficult times and maintain healthy communication and connection within their relationship.
It's important for both partners to understand what is happening and why. The partner who has experienced trauma may need time and space to process their feelings and work through them without pressure from their partner. It's essential for them to express themselves honestly about how they are feeling so that the other partner can understand and support them. This means being patient, nonjudgmental, and accepting.
Communication is key. Military couples should talk openly and frequently about their needs, desires, concerns, fears, and hopes. They should listen attentively to each other and make an effort to understand one another's perspective. They should avoid blaming or criticizing each other and focus on finding solutions together. When necessary, seeking professional counseling or therapy can also help.
Practicing intimacy and physical affection can help to rebuild trust and connection between partners. This can include holding hands, cuddling, kissing, and hugging. It could also involve more explicit forms of touch such as massage or foreplay leading up to sex. Military couples can explore what feels comfortable and natural to them individually and together.
Couples should try to engage in shared activities that bring them closer together. This could be anything from watching a movie together to taking a walk or cooking dinner. These activities create a sense of closeness and intimacy outside of sexual interactions. They allow military couples to build a strong foundation for future intimacy while still providing the necessary emotional support for their partner.
Maintaining relational empathy and sexual responsiveness in a relationship after trauma-induced emotional withdrawal requires patience, understanding, clear communication, and exploration. With these strategies, military couples can navigate difficult times and strengthen their bond even further.
How do military couples maintain relational empathy and sexual responsiveness when one partner experiences trauma-induced emotional withdrawal?
Military couples can maintain relational empathy and sexual responsiveness when one partner experiences trauma-induced emotional withdrawal by following several strategies. Firstly, it is important for both partners to communicate openly and honestly about their needs and feelings regarding the traumatic event and its impact on their relationship. This includes being supportive of each other's coping mechanisms and seeking professional help if necessary.